Fresh fruits and veggies may be to blame for stomach bug

A mysterious parasite causing flu-like symptoms has sickened more than 130 people in Iowa and Illinois.

The cause of this summer’s Cyclospora parasite outbreak is still unknown. Previous outbreaks of illness caused by the rare parasite were associated with fresh fruits and vegetables. Consuming contaminated food or water causes the infection.

The first cases were reported in mid- to late-June 2013. Many people reported still being ill weeks after their initial symptoms. Symptoms mirror the flu and include diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, headaches, body aches and low-grade fever.

People with healthy immune systems don’t necessarily require specific treatment, although Cyclospora infection can be treated with antibiotics. Untreated, symptoms of the infection can lost a month or longer.